If your home's electrics haven't been updated for many years, your consumer unit (sometimes called the fuse box) could be overdue for replacement.

For example, there can be many hidden dangers too, something you just can't see. Here, a property in Midsomer Norton requested their consumer unit be upgraded as they needed other electrical works completed in the near future, and when I began some testing I discovered this...

I regularly visit homes in Chilcompton, Wells, Shepton Mallet, Midsomer Norton, Radstock and the surrounding villages where the consumer unit is still the original one installed 30 or 40 years ago. While older units aren't necessarily unsafe, electrical standards have changed considerably, and a modern consumer unit offers much better protection for you, your family and your home. Here’s one I swapped out yesterday in Midsomer Norton - it wasn’t possible to move it without a lot of upheaval, but I did manage to relocate it to the left so that it’s more accessible! 

Here are five signs your consumer unit needs replacing. You can also visit my website to find out about other services that I provide.

1. You Still Have Rewireable Fuses

If your fuse box has removable fuse carriers with fuse wire inside, it's definitely showing its age.

These older systems were common for many years but don't provide the same level of protection as modern consumer units fitted with RCDs and RCBOs. They can also be inconvenient when a fuse blows, as replacing fuse wire isn't something most homeowners want to deal with.

Modern consumer units are designed to disconnect faulty circuits much more quickly, helping reduce the risk of electric shock and electrical fires.

2. Your Consumer Unit Trips Regularly

Occasional tripping can simply mean there's a fault with an appliance, but if you're constantly resetting breakers or losing power for no obvious reason, it's worth having the installation checked.

RCDs will operate if a slow build up of earth current reaches a certain level, an imbalance becomes the primary factor in tripping RCDs. It could be that there's a genuine fault or that the RCD has become "lame" - and over 5 or 6 circuits the mA currents have reached combined to reach 26-30mA, which is enough to trip the RCD and kill all the power on that side of the Consumer Unit. The consumer unit make up I am referring to here is a Split Load consumer unit...

I've attended several call-outs across Wells and Shepton Mallet where homeowners assumed their fuse box was faulty, only to discover ageing wiring or damaged accessories were causing the problem. Equally, there are occasions where replacing the consumer unit forms part of the safest long-term solution.

A proper inspection will identify the real cause rather than simply resetting the switch and hoping for the best.

3. There's No RCD Protection

One of the biggest improvements in electrical safety over the past couple of decades has been the introduction of Residual Current Devices (RCDs).

These devices can disconnect the electricity in milliseconds if they detect a fault that could otherwise result in electric shock.

If your consumer unit doesn't have RCD protection—or only protects part of your installation—it may no longer meet current expectations for domestic safety.

4. You're Planning Home Improvements

Thinking about a new kitchen, garden office, EV charger or extension?

These projects often place greater demands on your electrical installation. Before adding new circuits, it's sensible to check whether your existing consumer unit has enough capacity and provides suitable protection.

Many customers around Radstock, Midsomer Norton and Oakhill choose to upgrade their consumer unit before larger electrical projects, making future additions simpler and ensuring the installation complies with current regulations.

5. Your Consumer Unit Shows Signs of Damage

This one should never be ignored.

Look out for:

• Burn marks or scorching

• Cracks in the casing

• Loose switches

• Signs of overheating

• A burning smell

• Rust or water damage

Any of these could indicate an underlying fault that needs investigating by a qualified electrician.

Is Replacing a Consumer Unit Worth It?

In many cases, yes.

A modern consumer unit offers:

• Improved protection against electric shock.

• Better fire protection.

• Individual circuit protection using RCBOs.

• Easier fault finding.

• Compliance with current wiring regulations.

• Greater capacity for future electrical upgrades.

  
  

It's also reassuring to know your home's electrical system is equipped with modern safety devices designed to protect your family.

Local Electrical Advice You Can Trust

As a local electrician based near Chilcompton, I carry out consumer unit replacements throughout Wells, Shepton Mallet, Midsomer Norton, Radstock, Paulton, Oakhill, Peasedown St John and the surrounding Somerset villages.

I don't believe in recommending replacements that aren't needed. If your existing installation is safe and suitable, I'll tell you. If it would benefit from an upgrade, I'll explain why in plain English and provide a clear quotation with no pressure.

Every consumer unit replacement includes the required testing and certification, and I always leave your home clean and tidy when the job is finished.

You've read about the signs your consumer unit needs replacing - and you're still unsure?

If you're unsure how old your consumer unit is or whether it meets current safety standards, I'd be happy to take a look and give you honest advice - I will also advise you that no electrical installation is "illegal" - I am a Which? Trusted Trader, so you can be sure that I will offer nothing but the best service!!

A quick inspection can often answer any questions and help you decide whether an upgrade is necessary now or something to plan for in the future.

If you're in Chilcompton, Wells, Shepton Mallet, Radstock, Midsomer Norton or anywhere nearby, get in touch to arrange a friendly, honest assessment.